DID YOU KNOW?

• Starting in kindergarten, too many absences or tardies can cause children to fall behind in school.
• Missing school can make it harder to learn to read.
• Students can still fall behind if they miss just a day or two days every few weeks.
• Being late to school may lead to poor attendance.
• Absences can affect the whole classroom if the teacher has to slow down learning to help children catch up.
• Attending school regularly helps children feel better about school—and themselves.

PCS Code of Conduct-Attendance Policies

For more on school readiness, visit attendanceworks.org and reachoutandread.org

WHAT YOU CAN DO!

• Set a regular bed time and morning routine.
• Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before.
• Don’t let your child stay home unless they are truly sick. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.
• If your child seems anxious about going to school, talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make them feel comfortable and excited about learning.
• Develop back-up plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call on a family member, a neighbor, or another parent.
• Avoid medical appointments and extended trips when school is in session.